Splash Pad Vs. Pool Debate In Vernon Likely To Intensify In Fall

VERNON, CT — It appears the discussion about a splash pad or a new pool at Henry Park in Vernon will intensify as the fall progresses, thanks to a petition expressing interest in replacing the dilapidated Horowitz Pool.

But the prevailing question council members and town officials are pondering is what will the options cost the taxpayers?

The petition surpassed the 1 percent of the total registered voters at the last municipal election to get the topic on the council agenda. It seemed one-sided, however, compared, to the position town officials insist they are taking. Those signing it are asking the town to consider replacing the pool with a pool, but those on the second floor of town hall are saying both options should be explored as part of the "process" and "due diligence."

"That's our responsibility to the taxpayers," Vernon Town Administrator Michael Purcaro said. When pressed about whether there is an administrative preference, Purcaro said, "Part of that due diligence is to update the taxpayers with a complete cost analysis on every option."

The Horowitz pool dates back to 1952, but has since deteriorated with age and has been declared unsafe. It its heyday, it not only hosted recreational swimming, but competitive swim meets featuring summer clubs.

Vernon has another public pool at Center 375 — the Community pool - and offers supervised swimming at Newhoca Park on Bolton Lake. Unsupervised swimming takes place at Valley Falls Park. The potential for a splash pad recently came up as an extension of discussions about replacing Horowitz that began three years ago.

Reality dictates that a splash pad could be paid for with reserve funds from various revenue sources while a pool would likely involve less liquidity and head to a bonding referendum, but what are the costs at least in a preliminary sense?

According to town records:

• A pool would cost $5 million to start for a basic, six-lane rectangle and could climb to about $12 million with added depth and things like a diving area and a kids shallow area. Indoor pools could run toward the $20 million mark. Lifeguards would be necessary and admission would be charged.
• The estimated cost of a splash pad would be between $500,00 and $800,000 and could be funded by available monies. There would be no admission charge and the pad would essentially take upon the same space at the pool.

Discussions will like heat up at the council level in October and November, Purcaro said.